The artworks were created from the child artists’ own perspectives, using traditional Hue materials 

Drawing inspiration from renowned painters Pablo Picasso and Le Ba Dang, dozens of child artists in Hue explored art in their own ways, echoing Picasso’s famous message: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to help them retain their artistic spirit once they grow up.”

Indeed, over 80 artworks by the child artists are currently on display at Lebadang Art Center, part of the Hue Museum of Fine Arts, at 15A Le Loi St. (Thuan Hoa Ward). The exhibition, held in the final days of summer, has genuinely surprised both professional artists and art enthusiasts. While Pablo Picasso sparked a revolution in modern art through the language of Cubism, artist Le Ba Dang created a poetic “artistic space” where people, nature, memories, and the universe intertwine through free-flowing lines imbued with Oriental philosophy.

Under the lens of the young artists, these artistic philosophies take on a new dimension, where perspectives and creativity seem almost limitless. Portraits, still-life paintings, animals, and other subjects come alive in the young artists’ works, transforming each brushstroke into an adventure of colors and forms.

A special highlight of the exhibition is the use of Pho Trach sedge mats - a traditional material that has become a hallmark of numerous handicraft products in Hue. The combination of a passion for art and a desire to preserve traditional values has created a meeting point between creativity and heritage. Through each brushstroke, sedge is transformed from a familiar weaving material into a unique “canvas” where art and traditional craftsmanship come together to tell a new story.

In this way, these tiny artworks not only showcase the children’s creativity but also convey their love for nature, pride in their cultural heritage, and desire to preserve traditional values through the language of art.

According to the leaders of Hue Museum of Fine Arts, each painting reflects the children’s perseverance, imagination, and their joy in creating art. Some works are innocent and colorful, while others feature bold forms and strong compositions. Still others offer distinctive perspectives on people, nature, and life. Regardless of their age, the children are encouraged to confidently express their emotions and unleash their creativity, leaving their own imprint on the works through the pure and imaginative spirit of childhood.

As visitors step into the exhibition space, they are transported into an artistic world where imagination knows no bounds, creativity follows no fixed rules, and beauty always begins with a heart that is open to emotions. Beyond the artworks themselves, the exhibition also offers a glimpse of the beauty of a traditional craft village being carried forward through a fresh perspective.

Story and photo: Nhat Minh